Friends Programs and Events Calendar

The Friends of Schmeeckle host several programs and events throughout the year. Explore upcoming events below.

Lingering Monsters of Wetland Past 

Menzel Pavilion 2419 North Point Drive, Stevens Point, Wisconsin, United States

How do myths and legends shape our perceptions of wetlands? A short hike through Schmeeckle—and a little imagination—will reveal a history from ancient monsters to drainage ditches. Presented by Phillip White. 

Fishy Senses 

Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center 2419 North Point Drive, Stevens Point, Wisconsin, United States

Curious about fish? Bring your family for an evening of engaging and exciting activities to explore how local fish can adapt to ecosystems! Presented by Spencer Baeckman.

Music in Nature

Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center 2419 North Point Drive, Stevens Point, Wisconsin, United States

Let’s read Can You Hear the Plants Speak? by Nicholas Hummingbird. We’ll also go outside for a short hike and listen to the music of nature in Schmeeckle. Presented by Natalie Strong. 

Skull Sleuths

Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center 2419 North Point Drive, Stevens Point, Wisconsin, United States

Did you know bones found in Central Wisconsin hold the secrets of the past? Uncover what these remains reveal about animals’ lives, challenges, and history. Can you crack the case? Presented by Violet Schafer.

Fire Starter Academy

Menzel Pavilion 2419 North Point Drive, Stevens Point, Wisconsin, United States

Do you want to explore fire safety? This hands-on program will show you how to build a fire, identify the different types of fires, and safely extinguish them. Presented by Sydni Albrecht.

Spiders and Snakes and Slugs, Oh My!

Menzel Pavilion 2419 North Point Drive, Stevens Point, Wisconsin, United States

Not all creatures get the love they deserve, but we can change that! Come explore our most misunderstood animals through participating in pond dipping and log flipping. You’ll gain a new respect for these not-so-creepy critters! Presented by Autumn Bostrom.

Schmeeckle Symphony 

Menzel Pavilion 2419 North Point Drive, Stevens Point, Wisconsin, United States

Frogs are croaking chorus members that create the Schmeeckle Symphony! Discover Wisconsin’s twelve frog species by their songs and physical features. Presented by Mich Kraemer.

Fleeting Beauty

Menzel Pavilion 2419 North Point Drive, Stevens Point, Wisconsin, United States

Right now, under the forest floor, delicate and beautiful plants called spring ephemerals are getting ready to emerge. Go on a journey and explore these plants’ unique adaptations and significance before they disappear! Presented by Eric Janko-Gunderson.

Schmeeckle Teatime

Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center 2419 North Point Drive, Stevens Point, Wisconsin, United States

You are cordially invited to a fabulous tea party featuring locally foraged ingredients. Sip some tea and discover different ways you can use Central Wisconsin plants to add some flair to your life. Fun outfits are encouraged. Presented by Sarah Montzka.

Sensing Schmeeckle

Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center 2419 North Point Drive, Stevens Point, Wisconsin, United States

Did you know that we experience 80% of the world through sight? Give your eyes a break and join us for a guided walk to uncover the unique sensations of Schmeeckle by listening, touching, and smelling! What will you discover? Presented by Violet Schafer. 

Adventurers Wanted for Side Quest!

Menzel Pavilion 2419 North Point Drive, Stevens Point, Wisconsin, United States

Citizens, Schmeeckle is in danger. Dark forces of human origin are at work, threatening to destroy the natural balance. Join me, Guardian of the Wood, to stop the spread of invasive species before it’s too late! Will you accept the quest and restore the Heart of Schmeeckle? Presented by Kristina Striston. 

Banding Together: The Science of Feathered Friends

Menzel Pavilion 2419 North Point Drive, Stevens Point, Wisconsin, United States

Have you ever seen a banded bird before? Discover how bird banding research at Schmeeckle reveals the ways birds survive and thrive in a changing world. Depending on the weather, there may also be a bird banding demonstration. Presented by Dana Lotz.